Delhi Protests: Mobile Internet Suspended as Party Stages 'Chalo Sansad' March
Mobile internet services were suspended in parts of central Delhi on Monday as a political party, the CJP (Civic Janta Party), attempted to hold a protest march towards Parliament without official permission.
The party, along with its supporters, gathered at Jantar Mantar to begin what they called the 'Chalo Sansad' march. The Delhi Police had earlier denied permission for the gathering, citing concerns over law and order, and had imposed prohibitory orders banning large assemblies.
As the crowd swelled, tensions escalated between protesters and police personnel. Witnesses reported that the situation turned volatile, with police resorting to a lathicharge (use of batons) to disperse the crowd. No major injuries have been reported so far.
In response to the gathering, authorities suspended mobile internet services in several areas of central Delhi to prevent the spread of misinformation and coordinate security measures. The suspension affected residents and businesses in the region.
The CJP has been vocal about several demands, including electoral reforms and better civic amenities. The party's leadership stated that they were exercising their right to protest peacefully and accused the police of unnecessarily denying permission.
Delhi Police officials said that the denial of permission was based on intelligence inputs suggesting potential disruption of public order. They urged citizens to cooperate and avoid traveling to the affected areas until the situation normalizes.
The incident highlights ongoing debates around the right to protest and the powers of law enforcement agencies to impose restrictions in the interest of public safety. Legal experts note that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, the government can impose reasonable restrictions.
As of the latest reports, the protest has been contained, with security personnel maintaining a heavy presence in the area. Internet services are expected to be restored once the situation is deemed stable.
